Clicking noise coming from the bottom bracket [video]

just a nickname

Hi,

I was riding my Jamis Ventura 2008 that I got used for 360$CA. It wasn't in a very good condition, the cassette was missing a spacer and the headset wasn't correctly adjusted. Now I know why it was so cheap! It seems there is something wrong with the bottom bracket. I was riding the bike and I could hear a clicking noise. I wasn't exactly sure it was the bottom bracket but after adjusting the front derailleur (the chain was making contact on some speeds) it's clear now that the clicking noise comes from the bottom bracket. It only happens if there's enough pressure so if I am not accelerating there's no clicking. In the video I was trying to put as much pressure as I could on the bottom bracket and the clicking noise can be heard easily (it seems to be coming from the left side, I could feel a vibration on that side too). I am surprised my potato phone camera was able to pick that sound so well; it sounds less, it's much more subtle than what you can hear on the video. Still very annoying when you are riding! Wondering where it is coming from, trying not to push too much.

I was planning to grease the bottom bracket but it seems I might also have to change something...! Thought of what it can be?

Here's the link to the video, unfortunately I wasn't able to upload it here:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/0yn9pta3rf7qs ... 1.mp4?dl=0

diamonddog

Are you sure it's not the cleats/pedal contact or a loose cleat?

sloppyschleckonds

What do those who frequent 'Workshop' think?

crescent

Very difficult to say but, as above, cleats and pedals can be the source of annoying noises that sound like they are coming from the bottom bracket. Insufficiently tightened crank arms could be another possibility.

tonyhogg

.123

Bucksspeedyboy

I suspect the bearings in your bottom bracket need replacing. I had this all summer on a relatively new bike. I tried changing pedals, cleats, spokes, etc but still got a clicking noise on every downstroke on the left pedal. Eventually got the BB bearings replaced and it's been a smooth as silk since; I now feel guilty I blamed my Look Keo pedals because everyone on here said they are prone to creaking, but they are perfectly silent!

just a nickname

Thanks for the answers. I did tighten the pedals before taking that video. I decided to overhaul the BB. The crankset was very tight, had to use a lever and put all my weight on my arms.
I need a removal tool to get the BB out... LBS are closed sunday so I will do that tomorrow and report. How to tell if the bearings are shot?
The previous owner told me the BB was replaced last summer and he wasn't aware of that problem (I doubt).

just a nickname

Alright so just in case some one has the same problem, here is what happened:

I overhauled the drive train, the BB is a sealed cartridge so no maintenance possible other than cleaning the treads and putting grease to prevent rust. The BB had some corrosion on it but none could be found elsewhere. I inspected the frame with a light and every thing seemed good, no cracks, no corrosion. Looked flawless. Since I couldn't do anything else than buy a new BB cartridge in case the problem was still present I decided to re-install everything. I tried to reproduce the noise on the stand and was unable. I took it for a ride and I wasn't able to reproduce the noise again. The front derailleur needs some adjustment (chain makes contact). I will look into that, take it for a longer ride and pray that the problem went away.
I was careful to put a lot of pressure when tightening the BB and crankset. It's entirely possible it wasn't tight enough despite being VERY tight! The grease might have helped putting extra pressure on the BB or Crankset.

Thanks all for your answers and help!